2002 Kia Optima vs. 1989 Lada Samara
To start off, 2002 Kia Optima is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lada Samara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lada Samara would be higher. At 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1989 Lada Samara. (64 HP @ 5550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1989 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Kia Optima weights approximately 512 kg more than 1989 Lada Samara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Kia Optima (216 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lada Samara. (98 Nm). This means 2002 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lada Samara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Optima | 1989 Lada Samara | |
| Make | Kia | Lada |
| Model | Optima | Samara |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5550 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
